Will China end up giving lessons to the rest of the world for opening its borders to travellers? Practically every month, Chinese leaders announce new measures to simplify entry for international travellers on its territory.
China recently abolished the one-year visa requirement for a dozen countries, including France.for tourist or business visits. On 15 January, it extended this measure to Ireland and Switzerland.. Nationals of these two countries can now travel to China without a visa. The measure is unilateral and appears to be permanent for the time being.
The Chinese government has also decided to simplify formalities for transit or emergency trips of a non-diplomatic nature.
Foreigners who need to make an emergency visit to China can apply for visas directly on arrival in the country. All they have to do is submit their letter of invitation and relevant documents. This avoids the need to go through a diplomatic representation first.
Once in China, short-term international travellers can apply to extend or renew their visa with the Public Security Office. Businessmen will certainly appreciate this measure. It will make it easier for them to prolong negotiations with their Chinese partners.
And finally.., foreign travellers in direct transit for 24 hours will be exempt from border inspection procedures. This measure applies to nine of the country's international airports.
The government has also decided to simplify the formalities involved in obtaining a multiple-entry visa for foreigners who need to visit China several times a year.
